Reviewer's Choice

"The Tale of Zen Master Bho Li" is a trilogy of modern mystery fables that teaches three unique
life lessons crucial to learning to lead an awakened life. Each fable unfolds gradually, sinuously,
with gently tinted illustrations of characters, scenes, and events. Patience is required to follow
each tale through to its central kernel of wisdom. This is also a desirable Zen trait, for mindful
living. A key theme appears to be the resolution or acceptance of mental and physical suffering,
leading to a transformed awareness that allows greater understanding of the universal. "The Tale
of Master Bo Li" is also characterized by streaks of sometimes unexpected humor, This too is
characteristic of Zen teaching tales. Finally there is a use of the universe as mirror of human
actions. This affects all spiraling consciousness evolution; therefore it is essential to learn to seek
compassion and a desire for the healing of the human heart. An old wise woman known as Soyu
Sei makes many appearances in "The Tale of Zen Master Bho Li." "According to Master Bho Li,
she now wanders the world, assuming any form necessary to bring healing and compassion to the
human heart, tirelessly committed to easing the world's sorrow (p. 50)." "The Tale of Zen Master
Bho Li" is recommended reading for adults, teens, and young adults. Its messages of the
cultivation of patience, peace, and compassion are always fresh and new.

True wisdom is timeless. "The Little Book of Success Quotes" is a collection of thoughts and
quotations from many thinkers throughout history, from Plato to Vince Lombardi and everyone
in between. With a fascinating array of motivational writings, "The Little Book of Success
Quotes" is a choice pick for community and self-help collections, very much worth considering
for inspirational collections.

A step back into nature can help you understand a world that seems artificial. "A New South
Hunt Club: An Illustrated History of the Hilton Head Agricultural Society 1917-1967" discusses
the roots of the Hilton Head Island resort, which is now known as a modern playground for
wealthy golf lovers. In its founding, it was founded by a group of businessmen who wanted to
embrace hunting and living a life more simple than they came from. "A New South Hunt Club" is
an intriguing tale of abandoning high class and embracing nature, recommended.

Social Issues Shelf

Against Their Will: North Carolina's Sterilization Program, an anthology of brief journalism
articles about the North Carolina eugenics movement that included forced sterilization upon
adults and children - some blind or mentally retarded, some simply impoverished, many of which
were black, and a few that died from the involuntary operations. These articles raised awareness
about the modern eugenics program, revealing its workings, the lasting pain of its victims, and
even speculating upon how genetic testing could lead to new forms of eugenics. Now as North
Carolina is about to pay reparations to those who suffered from forced sterilization, their story is
both chilling and an invaluable lesson in state abuse of power that must be remembered, lest it be
repeated. A "must-have" for social issues collections, Against Their Will is highly
recommended.

History's vicious cycle proves hard to break. "Born, Not Raised: Voices from Juvenile Hall" is
Susan Madden Lankford's study into the chronic attendants of juvenile hall, teenagers who seem
destined for an adult prison as they approach the age of 18. A follow up of sorts to her previous
volume discussing women in prison, she turns her attention to a common element in their
children, that they too seem to be habitual offenders. With interviews and plenty to look into the
minds of these young people, Lankford hopes to bring much needed attention that something
should be done to help these children find their path in life. "Born, Not Raised" is a vital read for
anyone concerned about crime and curing the disease instead of the symptom.

The Business Shelf

Having the pulse of a crowd is vital to gauging the potential of an idea. "Crowdsourcing Tweet:
140 Bite-Sized Ideas to Leverage the Wisdom of the Crowd" is a collection of to the point
wisdom about the practice of crowdsourcing for businesses, along with practical advice for
business in general. For anyone looking for a fast paced collection of wise business wisdom,
"Crowdsourcing Tweet" is a strong pick for any business collection.

Good leadership is a quality vital for a business' success. "Great!" discusses the qualities of
leadership in business as Timothy F. Bednarz, professional business consultant, describes the
success stories of 160 American business leaders and focus on how they made their success
happen. "Great!" is a strongly recommended pick for those who want to best understand why
some companies can flounder despite having most of the tools of success.

Letting others deal with it is a common habit, encouraged by the ability to occasionally profit
from it. "Shifting the Monkey: The Art of Protecting Good People from Liars, Criers, and other
Slackers" discusses the 'monkey', the problems or responsibilities that are the necessary evil of
business. Author Todd Whitaker writes on how to best deal with monkeys, and more importantly,
deal with the people who wish to shuffle the monkeys off themselves, and lead to more problems
in business, dropping productivity and creating animosity. "Shifting the Monkey" is a fine read
for community library business collections.

Nonprofit companies are a different cookie for many entrepreneurs. "The Board Member's Easier
Than You Think Guide to Nonprofit Finances" is a comprehensive business guide for these
companies where reaching the maximum profit isn't the goal. Andy Robinson & Nancy
Wasserman approach readers with wisdom on running the books for nonprofit companies and
keeping them in the black. "The Board Member's Easier Than You Think Guide to Nonprofit
Finances" is a choice pick for anyone who will be in charge of a nonprofit organization's money
woes.

The Fiction Shelf

The temptations to delve into the arcane are all too tempting when the world keeps nudging us to
do so. "Night Vision II: Eleven More Haunting Tales" is a collection of short stories from Jackie
Vivelo as he presents everyday people presented with the supernatural and their curiosities in
trying to gain a better understanding of a world they don't understand as much as they thought.
"Night Vision II" is an excellent and recommended pick for any short fiction collection.

Life happens far too fast to truly break it down and understand everything about it. "Hurry
Along" is a novel from Sarah Plimpton that seeks to explore the fast paced nature of our world
and our attempts to put it all together. A riveting read that will do well in entertaining and
making one think about the world, "Hurry Along" is a strong pick for any literary fiction
collection.

Some people aren't cut out for war, but times may need them anyway. "In Sherman's Path" is a
historical novel of the Civil War, as Henry abandons the battles and retreats to a remote
plantation in Georgia. As Sherman's war machine storms through Georgia, Henry realizes that
running forever won't save him forever, and it may be down to him to slow down the cruelty of
Sherman. "In Sherman's Path" is a compelling tale of the Civil War, very much recommended
reading.

The loneliness we feel in life is more common than we'd imagine. "Relative Strangers" is a
collection of short stories from Margaret Hermes, exploring our place in the world, our relation
to those around us, and how we are often alone together. Poignant, with the right dose of humor
about our world, "Relative Strangers" is an excellent pick for those seeking a thoughtful and
excellently composed assortment of short stories, enthusiastically recommended.

In a small town, one's options prove limited. "More Light" follows the small town story of Leo
Sturtevant, a struggling individual in the small town of Josephine, Illinois. When his sister Iva
returns from Europe to tend to their fading parents, Leo finds the next step in his life. With a
heavy influence of music woven throughout the story, "More Light" is a fascinating and much
recommended tale for general fiction readers.

Retirement is never as peaceful as it should be. "Walter's Muse" is a novel from Jean Davies
Okimoto, following Maggie Lewis as she tries to enjoy her retirement only to have old friends
ruin that plan. A librarian with a love of reading, her relationship with children's author and man
with demons of his own Walter Hathaway. A romance of retirement and humor, "Walter's Muse"
is a fine pick for any general fiction collection, not to be overlooked.

What we endure for family can too often feel not worth it. "The River Within" follows the story
of Greer Madison, worldwide journalist who becomes entwined with Darlene and her Richardson
family. As the Richardsons struggle with their own plights of sacrifice, Greer grows closer to the
family, and particular, the daughter Kate, who is facing an arranged marriage with a man she
doesn't love. "The River Within" is a conflicted story of life's struggles, very much recommended
reading.

Running from the world can lead you through many intriguing adventures. "The Absent Traveler:
A Novella & Other Stories" is an unusual assortment of stories from Randall Devallance, as he
presents a unique spin of a tale, as he writes of Charles Lime, a man with little ambition and who
finds himself enraptured in his books, and lets his mind carry himself off. "The Absent Traveler"
is an excellent and fascinating pick for general fiction collections.

A teenagers ingenuity was the key to prosperity. "Water to my Soul" is a historical novel
dramatizing the works of the young Eliza Lucas Pinckney who helped indigo become an
important crop for the Wappoo Plantation, and helped the new colony America flourish in the
early eighteenth century. A remarkable story done justice by Pamela Bauer Mueller, "Water to
my Soul" is a fine addition to any historical fiction collection.

In the realm of absurdity, politics can get even more difficult to manage. "Ammon's Horn" is a
captivating novel with humor, as G. Amati writes of Greek gods, science, women, and the deficit
as he creates the above groups own ways of solving this problem such as selling off dead weight.
"Ammon's Horn" is worth considering for those who are seeking a story that will prove very
much off beat reading.

What is reality when reality doesn't seem entirely clear? "Like Water on Stone" is a novel from
Grant Steen who explores the state of consciousness, through discussing free will and putting
ideas together with the aborginal dreamtime legends as well as the more widely known ideas of
deja vu. An intriguing and thoughtful exploration, "Like Water on Stone" is a choice read with
plenty to ponder, recommended.

To see history as it happens should be a historians dream. "Roar of the Jaguar" follows a modern
archaeologist into ancient America, where he sees the struggles of the Mayan nation in its
passing between kings and the struggles to find its next rightful ruler. Alan Johnson, said
archeologist, finds that his involvement may lead to him having a longer stay than intended, as a
determined princess has taken a fancy to him and doesn't want him to leave this expedition so
easily. "Roar of the Jaguar" is a riveting story of alternative history fiction with a bit of fantasy,
highly recommended.

A link to the entire world may blind you to the world. "Circuits of the Wind" is the story of Ray
Valentine, who became hooked to the internet in its infancy, and found his adulthood there. A
coming of age tale of the early internet and the impact on an unsuspecting world, "Circuits of the
Wind" provides a very human story set on a backdrop of technology few truly understand, very
much recommended.

Life doesn't make a whole lot of sense, so sometimes we need some stories to match the
madness. "Twisted Tales to Rot Your Brain Vol. 1" presents unusual stories of flash fiction,
meant to bring readers into a dizzying spin of problems and how those losing it may deal with it
in all the wrong ways. "Twisted Tales to Rot Your Brain" is a humorous and intriguing delve into
flash fiction, very much recommended.

The role of the mercenary is to risk life and limb for something you may not even believe in, all
for a paycheck. "Guns for Hire" follows mercenary Jesse, of the SPARO's Spartans, delving into
the hostile territories of Iraq. With his life eternally in danger, he soon realizes the worth of his
life, and the importance of the family he left behind. "Guns for Hire" is a fine pick for general
fiction collections, recommended.

At any moment, one's existence may be compromised. "The Last Will and Testament of Lemuel
Higgins" is a novel form Patrick James O'Connor, as he presents an exploration of man looking
at his own end, as he presents a story of two individuals who are struggling to put their lives
together as they face their own eventual ends. "The Last Will and Testament of Lemuel Higgins"
is a fascinating and recommended pick for general fiction collections.

Pain sometimes gives you that boost to go forward. "A Good and Useful Hurt" follows the bond
of tattoo artist Mike and piercer Deb, who with a hire, find their own romance. But when death
enters their lives, pain comes with them, and Mike and Deb begin to look towards vengeance for
what they've lost, going beyond what they've known so well. A thoughtful tale of life's pain,
vengeance, romance, and skin art, "A Good and Useful Hurt" is a much recommended pick for
literary fiction collections.

What drives someone to create death as they pass? "Black Tide" is a prequel to John G. Rees
previous volumes surrounding the tale of Jake Strom, a commercial diver employed by Aquanaut
who slips deeper and deeper into the darkness. A story of what can allow a sane man to fall into
the darkness of life, his morality crushed by the pressures surrounding him, "Black Tide" is a fine
pick for any general fiction collection, very much recommended.

A hair stylist can be an artist all their own. "Soul-Aris" tells of the drive of stylist Aris Silkmann
who is driven to rise up through the ranks of Hollywood as a professional. With a certain spirit
and flare, her rise is one pegged with its own challenges, and proving her worth as a hair stylists.
"Soul-Aris" is a human and driven read with a strong philosophical and spiritual read throughout,
a read worth considering.

The family values of the old west can help a man after everything has broken down. "The Last
Rodeo" is a novel from Ron Johnson as he tells of a family of Idaho and how for their 60th
wedding anniversary, Ray and Betsy try to bring their family back together and find that ever
since they broke away from the nest, everything hasn't been going perfectly. "The Last Rodeo" is
a choice pick for general fiction collections looking for a touch of western flavor.

The Poetry Shelf

The Singing Inside is a moving anthology of brief, free-verse poetry revolving around the a long-
married couple's gradual adjustments to the changes that come with age, and time. Poignant and
thoughtful, The Singing Inside is worthy of extended quiet contemplation. Highly recommended.
"The Ice Woman": There is no sun to melt her arms, / To soothe the glacial coldness of her body.
/ When he touches her, / When he feels the burn of ice invade his fingers, / His eyes stare past her
/ As if they saw a world of white / With ponds like cataracts of ice.

Continuing his love of poetry, "One Bird Falling" is the latest volume of poetry from prolific and
award winning poetry from CB Follett, continuing his thoughtful brand of work that encourages
readers to pick their own brain for the truth. With much to ponder, "One Bird Falling" is a worthy
assortment to consider. "The Turn": At the sun's zenith/horses move toward shade,/bees growl
lazily, even the river slows.//As solstice,/at summer's high noon,/turn Earth on her axis,/toward
her sister's cold face.

A poet who has studied much of the world and has seen more of it, "Messages" is a collection of
poetry from Piotr Gwiazda, noted translator and scholar. Offering an educated view of the world
of poetry, "Messages" includes an interview with the author and proves to be a solid addition to
any world poetry collection. "Purgatory": Topic du jour: torture. Is it good or bad for America?/It
certainly makes it tougher, more competitive./Poetry, on the other hand, makes it softer and more
humane...//The rage of the talk show host./The tyranny of the minority./The pleasure police.//The
impossibility of being apolitical./The impossibility of taking a perfect picture/of oneself. What's
your name, honey? America.//The banality of morning clouds./Vivaldi in the shopping mall./
Jury duty.

We all have our own flare and fire in life. "The Fire Behind My Eyes" is a collection of poetry
from Dawnell Harrison as she explores the nature of our drive through her poetry, adding on to
her two previous volumes. Thoughtful reading with a good deal to consider, "The Fire Behind
My Eyes" is a fine choice for poetry fans, very much recommended. "Years After Round 12":
Throughout your Father's house,/My mind questions your recollection of Mother//Shoved into
Idaho walls and fists,/Stony bruises last for weeks -//Do you push those days/Onto a far off
antique moon,/The one you send me to everyday, Silently.

It's hard to build up the courage, but baring one's heart to the world is refreshing when you can do
it. "Three Birds Deep" is a collection of poetry from Sheila Carter-Jones, offering a bit of her
own soul to the world through verse. Winner of the 2012 Naomi Long Madgett Poetry award,
"Three Birds Deep" is a thoughtful collection sure to appeal to many. "The Scholar: On
Farming": I see pigs/every time somebody says,/I'd like to piggy-back/on that.

A long career of poetry with little intent to stop, T. Kilgore Splake continues to provoke an
unusual and thought provoking brand of poetry. "Ghost Dancer's Dreams" is another entry into
his over sixty five books of poetry and prose, continuing his unique brand of quality. "Ghost
Dancer's Dream" is a fine addition to any literary poetry collection, much recommended. "60's":
rebuilt vw-bus/summers on the road/"rfk" bumpsticker/only bobby left/suddenly cold
nothingness/lyndon hubert nixon/cannon fodder 'mia's'/down rabbit hole/black nada mas.

The market is predictable, which makes its avoidable failures all the more baffling. "Confessions
of a Wall Street Whiz Kid" follows famed Wall Street player Peter Grandich as he tells his tale of
playing the markets for twenty five years and his uncanny predication of booms and busts
through that period. Offering a personal look into wall street and the people who play the
markets, "Confessions of a Wall Street Whiz Kid" is a solid and much recommended pick for
community library economics and memoir collections.

The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Applying narrative to an issue is often an excellent way to share its story. "A Murder in West
Covina: Chronicle of the Finch-Tregoff Case" is a dramatization from James L. Jones who
presents a comprehensive review of this case through reviews and ideas to put it all together as a
work of creative non-fiction. "A Murder in West Covina" is worth considering for any student of
the law and for true crime collections.

American Fever: A Tale of Romance & Pestilence is a charged novel written in the format of a
day-by-day blog. A New York libertarian by the online handle of "Count Blogula" posts online
about the horrendous devastation and loss of life from a bird flu pandemic that sweeps through
America. He struggles to survive even as he sells masks, gloves, and goggles over the internet.
An encounter with a mysterious woman further transforms his life, but a second threat even more
insidious than the flu threatens to destroy him - the predations of a government bent on
controlling its citizens, even rounding them up and sending them to prisons where they get sick
and die. Whole cities become ghost towns or worse as the pandemic takes its terrible toll, and the
blogger and his newfound love are forced to flee for their lives. Biting political commentary
interlaces the suspenseful, near-apocalyptic main narrative. "I realize now that big bureaucracies
of any kind are the problem. Any organizational threshing machine is a menace, whether it's
public or private... What would Ayn Rand say today about her failure? Her acolyte Alan
Greenspan turned the Federal Reserve into a private investment pump. The business world is run
by men she would have despised. Their enterprises feed off a state whose overseers take orders
from CEOs..." Suspenseful and terrifying, American Fever will keep the reader glued to the page
until the very end.

Guilt can often push us to try to attain justice. Set in early twentieth century America, "A Deadly Affection" is a historical novel following Dr. Genevieve Summerford, who tries to cope with the possibility that her work as a psychologist may have unwittingly provoked one of her patients into committing a murder. Trying to regain the respect of her family, she works with people, including some unsavory characters, to find not just the truth but also her peace as well as justice. "A Deadly Affection" is a fascinating read from cover to cover.

What attracts us most so often is what is worst for us. "Silk" is a novel following three women
who have gotten everything they wanted out of their life, but find that isn't enough. The next
steps for them lead them to crossroads that could give them more money than they ever wanted,
the men of their dreams, and a clash of freedom and loss. The cost of all of this makes "Silk" a
riveting novel of high society and high stakes, very much recommended reading.

For one's country, one can find themselves in the strangest of situations. "Operation Ruby
Slipper" is a spin of historical fiction and thriller, as actress and singer Judy Garland is tapped for
an operation to end a major operation for Nazi Germany. Garland must appeal to the reclusive
physicist who has a thing for her, to lure him out, but her journey will be far from typical.
"Operation Ruby Slipper" is an excellent pick for anyone looking for a different spin of World
War II espionage.

The strangest of things can bring you closer to the divine. "The Dionysian Alliance" is a
suspenseful novel following Detective Benjamin Kramer and his discovery of his ancestry within
a religious order that promises to bring him into every dirty thing he can imagine, followers of
Dionysos, the ancient god of wine and ecstasy. "The Dionysian Alliance" is a fun and riveting
read that should prove difficult to put down.

A corpse to some, is worth killing for. "Dead and Not So Buried" is a fast paced thriller mystery
from James L. Conway, following Detective Gideon Kincaid as he must search down the remains
of a dead movie star of decades ago and find the people who want it. An unusual plot that
sprawls all throughout Hollywood, "Dead and Not So Buried" is an excellent pick for community
library suspense and thriller collections.

Circled by the bloodthirsty and untrusting, you learn to appreciate the few allies you have.
"Deeds of Deceit" is a novel following heiress Baylis Jones, as she finds herself cornered by a
cult that had killed her parents fifteen years before. With her own community turning away from
her, it's up to her and the Sheriff who doesn't believe the accusations against her to dodge those
who want to end her life and find something that resembles justice. "Deeds of Deceit" is an
excellent addition to any thriller assortment.

Cruelty has no shame, and those who hunt those who do evil should have none either. "Dark
Mind" follows vigilante Emily Stone, who has set herself to oppose serial killers and those who
would do harm to children. Going against the law for her own goals and own sense of justice,
Jennifer Chase crafts a story of a woman determined to make a difference at any cost. "Dark
Mind" is a strongly recommended pick for those who enjoy fast paced thrillers.

Mankind makes mistakes, and sometimes those mistakes are deadly. "There's Always
Tomorrow" follows detective Chris Callahan, a man who put his murdering former friend Billy
O'Brien behind bars. When O'Brien is let out due to error, Callahan doesn't get to enjoy his
retirement as he is tapped to bring his old pal back to justice. "There's Always Tomorrow" is a
riveting read of mystery and adventure, very much recommended reading.

What fuels such obsession? "The Appeal of Stalking" is a novel from Stan Talbott as he explores
the psyche of those who stalk and their thought processes. Focusing on a broken family and the
events that surround them, and the people they attract them, "The Appeal of Stalking" is a novel
that presents many fascinating questions.

Delirium Books presents four original works of spine-chilling horror fiction, available both in
ebook and in compact hardbound formats. Allan Leverone's "Heartless" (9781937771102) is a
twisted tale of horrific predation; when a serial rapist-murderer selects the wrong two women to
be his next victims, he unwittingly finds himself in the role of the prey! Jeffrey Thomas' "Subject
11" (9781937771126) follows the test subjects of an allegedly voluntary experiment that quickly
transforms into lapses of mind, memory, and awareness of time and space. Trapped within an
isolated complex of abandoned buildings, their struggle to escape becomes increasingly more
surreal and deadly, until the shocking revelation of the experiment's final result. Tim Waggoner's
"The Men Upstairs" (9781937771119) is a dark story of sudden lust and love between a man and
the woman he finds alone and weeping. But their romance is star-crossed, for she used to belong
to The Men Upstairs, a ruthless group who will commit any crime to reclaim her! Tim Curran's
"The Underdwelling" (9781937771096) is an exciting, tense underground adventure, as a cash-
strapped miner and soon-to-be father Boyd accompanies a group of volunteers to the lowest level
of Hobart Mine, discovering far more than a gloomy labyrinth. 400 feet below the Earth's
surface, they uncover a passage to a prehistoric cavern that is practically another world - and
inhabited by an ancient, inhuman, dangerous, and lonely presence! All four horror novels are
charged with the grim essence of fear itself, and will keep the reader glued to the very last
page.

The Health/Medicine Shelf

Diver Medical Technician: Care of the Injured Diver is a medical textbook designed especially to
instruct people responsible for emergency care of sick and injured divers. Diver Medical
Technician is expressly meant to be used as part of a medical course taught by a qualified
instructor; it is not meant for self-study. Drawing directly on the expertise of the author, a Diver
Medical Technician Instructor of over 10 years' experience, and other professionals, Diver
Medical Technician covers a brief review of anatomy, how to assess the patient, decompression
and recompression, pressure injuries and illnesses, medical and marine injuries, soft tissue
injuries, musculoskeletal injuries, cardiac emergencies, saturation diving issues, and much more.
Black-and-white photographs and charts illustrate this meticulous, comprehensive, and thorough
resource highly recommended especially for medical instructors training students who will be
responsible for aiding divers in trouble.

Motherhood is a complicated endeavor, and sometimes it just becomes even more complex.
"High-Risk Pregnancy, Why Me?" is a guide from Kelly Whitehead, a mother who has faced
miscarriage and complicated pregnancies following. Bringing practical advice forward that
reminds mothers to remember their own health when panicking about the health of their unborn
child, "High-Risk Pregnancy, Why Me?" is a must consider for those who feel a rocky pregnancy
may be int heir future.

Losing weight is a struggle that often fails for many, but there are many rules to embrace in one's
personal war against obesity. "The 7 Principles of Fat Burning: Get Healthy, Lose Weight, and
Keep it Off!" is a diet and exercise advisory guide from dietician Eric Berg, who encourages
greater knowledge for one's own journey to fitness, stating that one must understand their body
type to create a healthy weight loss plan and unlock the power of fat burning hormones. "The 7
Principles of Fat Burning" is well worth considering for those trying to find a new path to greater
physical fitness.

The Gaming Shelf

In forty years, gaming has come from nothing to being an entertainment juggernaut. "Gaming
from Atari to Xbox" traces the history of home video games from primitive pixels to the full on
cinematic experiences of modern gaming. Offering a fine introduction to the creations that have
become a major part of modern popular culture and don't look to be going anywhere, "Gaming
from Atari to Xbox" is an excellent pick those looking to gain a better understanding of why
gaming matters.

The Memoir Shelf

Opportunity calls no matter where you are in the world. "Chicken Feathers and Garlic Skin" is a
memoir from Chun Yu Wang as she tells her tale of a Chinese woman looking for a better life
and finding none of it. Wang offers an insightful look into Chinese culture, and the conditions
that one often faces, as well as her decision to go to Saipan, where her struggles didn't improve.
A tragic yet uplifting tale of spirit against adversity, "Chicken Feathers and Garlic Skin" is a
much recommended pick for any international memoir collection.

Against despair, few have the courage to rise up and reclaim peace. "Flight of Remembrance" is a
memoir of World War II throughout Europe and America as Marina Dutzmann Kirsch recounts
the journeys of her parents as they tried to break through the war that was consuming their
countries and leaving little more than scorched earth. Her story is a romance of uncertain times, a
read with plenty to ponder and consider. "Flight of Remembrance" is a strong pick for any
memoir or military history collection.

Wards often see people on the brink of the pain of their lives. "Inside the Insane" is a memoir
from Erica Loberg as she recalls her own time in a psychiatric crisis ward in Los Angeles,
California, about how she struggled to cope with the own weight on her soul and tried to heave
off the weight that pushed down on her as she looked upon others who were at the end of their
rope. A personal look at mental illness, "Inside the Insane" is a telling and thoughtful look at a
critical issue for many in America.

Strength when you need it most can come from anything. "Beyond the Great Abyss:
Enlightenment, Redemption, and My Journey to the Unknown" is a spiritual and inspirational
memoir from Becca Chambers as she shares her journey from despair of physical and emotional
problems to finding the strength to conquer them all. A thoughtful and driven read of alternative
medicine, "Beyond the Great Abyss" is worth considering for followers of spiritual and
metaphysical inspirational stories.

The weight of tragedy tests us like no other. "Field Notes from Grief: The First Year" is a
memoir from Judith Gold Stitzel, who recalls her harrowing journey of coping with the slow
death of her husband and the struggles she had caring for him in the last year. With artwork from
Claudia Giannini capturing the tragedy through art, Stitzel does well in presenting a frank
struggle of a couple's struggles at their worth times. "Field Notes from Grief" is a choice pick for
memoir collections, especially those focusing on end of life care and loss.

The Self-Help Shelf

Impossible is just an excuse. "Doing the Impossible: The Laws for Doing the Impossible" is an
inspirational delve into how to push oneself to move and make a difference in their lives, driving
themselves to find their faith, and take notes from other crusaders against the impossible to drive
themselves forward. "Doing the Impossible" is a strongly recommended pick for anyone looking
for an inspirational collection of practical wisdom.

The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

The Touch of Roy and Dale
Tricia Spencer
West Quest
9780615498324, $21.95, www.westquest.org

As television and radio took the stage, there were many embracing a past to make their stardom.
"The Touch of Roy and Dale: The Impact and Influence of Roy Rogers, The King of the
Cowboys, and Dale Evans, The Queen of the West, as Only Their Fans Could Tell It" is a fan
gathering surrounding these western stars of the mid-twentieth century, creating firm memories
of the period. Offering a personal collection of thoughts and nostalgia, there are new photo and
other media spread throughout. Fans of the legacy of the western should embrace "The Touch of
Roy and Dale", very much recommended.

The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

A legacy of witchcraft can return, even when the magic seems forgotten. "Twixt" is a work of
fantasy and Irish folklore set in Idaho, as Rose, descendent of a legend of the region who had
fairy powers, begins to tempt the forces of the unknown once more. In search of romance, she
finds out more about herself and the spirits that surround her, including the truth about her past
lives. "Twixt" is an intriguing modern fantasy, well worth considering.

The talents we are given can work with others, or work against them. "Blood Divided" is the
second book in the Soul Born Saga, following four children of Karn and their fates that could
bring the world together, or just as well tear the world once more into chaos. A tale of power,
mysticism, and the weight of adulthood,"Blood Divided" is a fine consideration for any fantasy
fan, especially those who enjoyed the first book of the series.

The Door is a grim, fantastic novel about connections between our world and Heaven - or Hell.
Angels have long used mysterious "doors", through which only good is supposed to pass, but the
Salem Village witch trials revealed that the Devil is also quite capable of traversing them! The
Devil's invitation into a holy church nullified safeguards, opening the way for incalculable evil
and corruption. Will the Devil's scheme to not only enslave Earth to his worship, but also enact a
coup upon Heaven itself, come to fruition? The Door is a riveting read to the very last page.

The Jobs/Careers Shelf

Some people aren't sunshine and rainbows, but this doesn't mean a successful career is out of the
question. "The Introvert's Guide to Professional Success" discusses advancement in a
professional career as someone who isn't exactly a people person. Joyce Shelleman advises
readers who happen to have all the skills but the people skills to help them develop what they
need to be a successful leader in spite of it all. "The Introvert's Guide to Professional Success" is
a fine pick for those who want to show that silent competence is just as useful as anything
else.

The Needlecraft Shelf

A shawl can provide warmth with a little style added on. "Exquisite Crochet Shawls" is a guide
to crafting five beautifully crafted shawls, with simple to follow designs to help readers gain a
greater understanding on how to make these designs their own. A flat-spine guide for
needle-working enthusiast, "Exquisite Crochet Shawls" is a much recommended pick, not to be
overlooked.

The Sports Shelf

The bicycle is a relatively modern invention, yet it has taken the cultures of the world by storm.
"Bicycle Technology: Understanding the Modern Bicycle & Its Components" discusses the
modern state of bicycling with a technical guide to the many types of bikes, the materials of its
construction, the details of customizing one's bikes, and much more. A complete and
comprehensive outline to every detail that can affect a bikes comfort and performance, "Bicycle
Technology" has black and white photos all throughout and proves to be quite the detailed
breakdown of info, a must for any biking enthusiast.

The Education Shelf

It's never too early to aspire to greatness. "Envision: Career Aspiration" is a guide aimed at
teachers to encourage students to reach out towards a career and work towards that goal with
their high school education. With plenty of resources for teachers to push this curriculum,
Melanie L. Bondy presents much advice on pushing this wisdom to students. Containing a CD
with even more information, "Envision: Career Aspiration" is an excellent pick for educational
and teacher's resource collections.

The Reference Shelf

With the valuable government contracts, comes the standards that may seem daunting to meet at
first. "Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction 2012: The Greenbook" is a
complete and comprehensive reference for construction managers on what is expected of them
for these very important projects. Covering everything from the materials required, working with
existing construction, among others, it also discusses methods when working on roads, buildings,
traffic light systems, and other vital things to note. "Standard Specifications for Public Works
Construction 2012" is a must have reference for any construction manager who may have a
public works contract on their plate.

The Military Shelf

Accessible to readers of all backgrounds, The Sheqel examines the complex and evolving field of
intelligence gathering, especially with regard to military matters in general and the war on terror
in particular. Chapters address how the lack of language experts has severely hindered America's
war on terror; spying throughout the past century; an examination of intelligence gathering in
Bosnia; what it means to accurately gathering intelligence to build a profile of an enemy leader;
and much more. "The constructions of society in whole reflect foreign policy gaps between the
citizens and the leaders and so laws often change from state to state. Science and technology
studies on trial also draw on social concerns for its needs to draw on fresh cases often used for
research developments in courtroom settings. On the contrary to social concerns, surprise and
change in national and international politics also reflect too on improvements in intelligence
communities." The Shequel is a fascinating study, discussion, and evaluation, enthusiastically
recommended to any with an interest in the topic.

Elite units are always needed in war, and the leathernecks lead the way for America. "The First
Leathernecks: A Combat History of the U. S. Marines from Inception to the Halls of Montezuma
(1775-1848) covers the history of these marine precursors as the played a major part in the
revolutionary war as well as the war of 1812. Their battles were won with cunning, strategy, and
a bit of everything else. With color artwork throughout, "The First Leathernecks" is a choice pick
for military history collections and readers with a fascination of early American armies.

The LGBT Shelf

Romance doesn't stop because strange things are happening. "Heiresses of Russ" is a collection
of short speculative fiction, compiled by Joselle Vanderhooft & Steve Berman, who collect the
best stories of 2011 with a focus of romance and the unusual, using the genres to compliment one
another and creating highly enticing stories. Dedicated to famed feminist speculative fiction
writer Joanna Russ, "Heiresses of Russ" is a fine addition to any short fiction collection,
especially those with a focus on lesbian and speculative fiction.

The Science Shelf

Fungus has a unique place in the eyes of the world. "Conspectus of World Ethnomycology: Fungi
in Ceremonies, Crafts, Diets, Medicines, and Myths" discusses mushroom and its related species,
and their use to humanity all over the world. Fungus has proven to be an edible foodstuff, a key
ingredient in medicine, and more, and Frank M. Dugan travels the world to give a more
comprehensive view of it all. "Conspectus of World Ethnomycology" is an excellent and
recommended pick for collections focusing on the plants and fungi of the world as well as world
cultures.

The Biography Shelf

Conflicts from halfway across the globe have profound impact on America. "Still Time to Live"
is a biography of international American journalist Jack Belden, who under employment of
Time-Life, covers the grueling conflicts of the Chinese Civil War and China's fights against
Japan. Sent home by an injury, he finds the witch hunt of McCarthyism hurt him more than any
bullet wound. "Still Time to Live" is a remarkable and much recommended pick for community
library biography and history collections.

The Parenting Shelf

Parenting knows no faith, it just is. "Mormon Parenting Secrets: Time-Tested Methods for
Raising Exceptional Children" is a parenting guide for an family as Flint Stephens applies the
Mormon family philosophy and how any family can follow them. By looking to the past,
encouraging children to maximize their potential, avoiding spoiling while encouraging modesty,
"Mormon Parenting Secrets" is an excellent pick for any parenting collection, very much
recommended.

The Philosophy Shelf

What is enough for the person, for the world? "Enough: A Pedagogic Speculation" is an
intriguing break down of modern education and needs of the world, offering a perspective on the
world that is really quite different than most of the standard trains of thought, urging a society of
enough, encouraging individualism and a modern world, and how it works from a personal level
to international affairs. "Enough" is a fascinating and strongly recommended pick for general
philosophy collections, not to be overlooked.

The Jewelry Shelf

There's plenty of beauty beyond the most common of gemstones. "Rare Gemstones: How to
Identify Evaluate and Care for Unusual Gems" is a guide to identifying more obscure and rare
gems for those who are looking for something a bit more off the beaten path of the jewelry
collection. The guide, presented in full colors with plenty of full color photos all throughout, is
comprehensive in its standards, its collection of prices, and other useful info for keeping these
gems. "Rare Gemstones" is a strong pick for any collector of more obscure gems.

The Travel Shelf

When an American thinks Europe, images of the United Kingdom, France, and the Netherlands
come to mind, but there is much to be learned from the places east of where the Berlin Wall once stood. "The
Hidden Europe: What Eastern Europeans Can Teach Us" is a traveling memoir from Francis
Tapon as he shares his journey into the Europe less spoken of, and what he learned from his
travels, and from the people. Lessons about saving, lessons about national pride, lessons of
outliers, and the long standing effects of communism. "The Hidden Europe" is a fascinating read
with plenty to consider, very much recommended reading.

The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Learning is quite the reward, and pets can bring plenty of that. "Lessons I Learned from Myra:
(And other Valuable Life Lessons!)" is an inspirational read from Fred M. Tileston as he brings
enjoyable anecdotes of pet ownership and what can be learned from one's adventures and
misadventures with their dog. "Lessons I Learned from Myra" is a choice pick for any pet lover,
much recommended.

Especially to the young, the bond with a pet can prove incredibly strong. "Just One More Day: A
Dog Lover's Guide to Saying Good-Bye" is a charming read from Georffrey Bain, as he advises
dog lovers on how to best cope with the impending or recent death from a beloved pet. From
discussions with one's veterinarian to exploring all possible options before accepting death as the
only answer, "Just One More Day" is a strongly recommended pick for those who are struggling
to cope with the potential loss of one of their best friends.

First published in 1978, Most of All They Taught Me Happiness is a spirituality guide now
available in a new edition, updated by author and World War II veteran Robert Muller.
Cherishing the values of prayer, meditation, and encouragement, Most of All They Taught Me
Happiness stresses that happiness is not a prize to be chased and seized, but rather the natural
result of devoting oneself to the fulfillment of one's purpose. As such, it is possible to experience
happiness in the bleakest moments of life - even when surrounding by wartime cruelty or held in
prison. "I have never forgotten Slavko Bosnjakovich and Dr. Coue's method. True enough, as
with prayers, I have not always repeated the suggested daily words, but I have instinctively
followed Dr. Coue's philosophy of optimism and self-reliance all my life. Many times at the
United Nations, when bad news tends to drag me down, I revert to an innermost part of myself,
switch on optimism and confidence, and immediately I return to a positive, creative mood." Most
of All They Taught Me Happiness is highly recommended as both a spirituality guide and a self-
help resource.

Nudity means nothing to hide, and we often hide what we want out of the world from ourselves.
"Bare Naked at the Reality Dance" is an inspirational guide from Suzanne Selby Grenager as she
spins a spiritual memoir of the world, she shares her journey to learning about the real her and
advises others to find that reality for themselves as well. With a strong spiritual message fueled
by yoga, "Bare Naked at the Reality Dance" is a choice pick with plenty practical and sage
advice, much recommended.

The Christian Studies Shelf

Prayer is our connection with the divine, and it should be cherished. "Straight from the Heart" is
a devotional guide from Holli Pearson as she shares a devout journey into spirituality,
encouraging a more personal and driven prayer. A powerful read for those who want to cherish
their prayers for their lives, "Straight from the Heart" is a strong and much recommended pick for
community library Christian spirituality collections.

Tradition is a method of spreading ideas through the ages. "Gospel & Traditions" is a
comprehensive study of Christianity and the gospel from Bernard Sesboue, a French Jesuit
scholar who is known for his works that promote deeper study of the faith and interreligious
dialogue. In this volume, he provides a scholarly breakdown behind tradition and the gospel, and
how the two concepts in Christian dogma have been strongly intertwined throughout the church's
history. "Gospel & Traditions" is an excellent pick for Christian studies and history
collections.

The Judaic Studies Shelf

The Jewish faith is one that has endured a wide array of pain. "Torah Tapestries: Words of
Wisdom Woven from the Weekly Parashah" is a collection of writings discussing Jewish faith,
discussing the biblical flight from Egypt and search for a home and redemption as a people. A
fascinating exploration of the Torah and what it asks of Jews who are trying to live faithful and
good lives, "Torah Tapestries" is an excellent and core addition to any Judaic Studies community
and college library collection.

The Agriculture Shelf

The simple joy a hard day's work seems hard to get in the modern world. "Conversations with the
Land" is a call to return to the culture of agriculture, as tells his own journey back to that joy,
focusing on creating sustainable agriculture and man in harmony with nature around him.
"Conversations with the Land" is a strong pick for anyone with a love of the land and wants to
get back to living with it, instead of demanding of it.

One must care for the soil when growing to affirm its long term health. "The Art of Balancing
Soil Nutrients" is an agriculture and growing guide from William McKibben, the Crop Doc.
McKibben advises readers on how to better maintain their soil's health and keep it working well
throughout one's growing career, with methods of testing the soil, reading them, and how to
better care for the soil in response. With plenty of useful and practical information on growing,
"The Art of Balancing Soil Nutrients" is a must have for anyone concerned about their fields and
their output.

The Photography Shelf

Photography can be fun, it can be more fun when the picture is actually good. "That Picture
Stinks!: An In-Your-Face, No-Nonsense Guide to End Lousy Picture Taking Forever" is a
photography guide from Judy Holmes & Greg Baer as they present many tips and tricks for
making sure one can get a more effective slot with any camera, by observing the situation and
making tweaks accordingly. With plenty of full color examples, "That Picture Stinks!' is a strong
pick for amateur photographer who wants to come off as less amateurish.

The Relationship Shelf

The Laws of Love is a self-help guide to cultivating strong, lasting, and loving relationships.
Although there is a spiritual component to the advice, most of it is grounded in practical wisdom.
Principles discussed include "Relationships Only Thrive in Safe Space", "If You Would Be
Loved, Love Yourself", "The Happiness You Seek Can Only Come from within You", and "An
Ideal Relationship Can Only Exist within Complete Trust". "Do not be one of those people who
let their arguments flame out of control because you lack the discipline to calmly and lovingly
discuss a situation. Both you and your partner are seeking balance, seeking to have each other see
it your way." The Laws of Love is an excellent supplemental resource and tool for pursuing a
healthy relationship.